Models · BMW
BMW 2 Series F22/F23 buying guide
The first 2 Series, sold from 2014 to 2021 as the F22 coupé and F23 convertible, both rear-wheel drive. The range runs from the three-cylinder 218i and the diesels to the six-cylinder M235i and, from late 2016, the M240i. The M2 is covered on its own page.
The versions
- Four-cylinder petrols: 220i with the N20 to 2016, then the B48; three-cylinder 218i (B38) from 2015
- Six-cylinder petrols: M235i (N55, 2014 to 2016), M240i (B58, 2016 to 2021, 340PS)
- Diesels: 218d, 220d and twin-turbo 225d, with the N47 to 2015 and the B47 after
- 6-speed manual or 8-speed ZF automatic, the automatic the more common
- F22 coupé and F23 fabric-roofed convertible; xDrive four-wheel drive offered on the M235i and M240i
What to check on a F22 2 Series
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
M235i: split charge pipe
What to look for: On the drive, accelerate firmly in third gear. A sudden loss of power, a whoosh from the engine bay or a reduced-power warning is the thing to note. With the bonnet up, look at the plastic pipe joints at the intercooler and throttle body.
Why it matters: The plastic charge pipe on the N55 can split at its joints, which lets boost escape. It's a common, simple fix, and many cars now have an aluminium replacement.
M235i: water pump and fuel pump
What to look for: Check the coolant level with the engine cold, and ask whether the water pump has been replaced. Note whether the engine cranks for longer than normal before starting or stutters under load.
Why it matters: The N55 uses an electric water pump, which is known to fail; an invoice for a replacement is a plus. High-pressure fuel pump failures also occur on the N55, though less often than on the older 335i.
M240i: coolant level and the expansion tank cap
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant expansion tank level and look for dried residue around the cap. Ask whether the seller has had to top it up.
Why it matters: Coolant leaks on the B58 are often traced to the expansion tank cap, a simple part to replace. A slowly falling level with no visible leak is the usual sign, and a car whose level has been watched is a good sign.
Also in the full guide
- Oil leaks from the valve cover
- 220i: chain noise on the N20
- Rear lights and iDrive
- Exhaust flap rattle on the six-cylinder cars
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F22 2 Series
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.